A boat that rolled into the water during Hurricane Irma at a Fort Myers Beach marina. FILE PHOTO

When the storm is approaching and quick action is needed:

• Listen to your local Emergency Management office for specific boat evacuation instructions.

• Do not stay aboard — remove your vessel from the water if possible.

• Remove all moveable equipment: canvas, sails, dinghies, radios, biminis, roller furling sails.

• Lash down everything you cannot remove: tillers, wheels, booms.

• Make sure the electrical system is turned off unless you plan to leave the boat in the water.

• Remove battery and portable fuel.

Preparation tips:

• Practice how to secure your boat in the marina.

• Check your lease or boat storage agreement.

• Know your responsibilities and liabilities.

• Gather your records and insurance policies.

• Have a boat photo and the Hull ID Number (HIN#).

• Know how to contact the harbor master and Coast Guard.

• Write your phone number on paddle boards, kayaks, and life jackets.

Storing your boat:

• Ensure your tow vehicle is capable of moving the boat. Check trailer, tire bearings, and axle are in good condition.

• Once at a “safe place,” lash your boat and trailer and place blocks between the frame members and axle inside each wheel.

• Secure your boat with heavy nylon lines to fixed objects.

• If possible, find a location that will allow you to secure it from all four sides. It can be tied to screw anchors. Do not secure your boat to a tree.

In dry storage:

• Never leave a boat on davits or on a hydro-lift.

In wet storage:

• Secure boat in marina berth.

• Moor boat in safe area.

• Haul the boat.

• Leave area well in advance.

Boats remaining in marina berth:

• Double all lines. Rig crossing spring lines fore and aft. Attach lines high on pilings to allow for tidal rise or surge. Make sure lines will not slip off pilings. Inspect pilings and choose those that seem strongest, tallest, and are properly installed. The longer the dock lines, the better a boat will be at coping with high tides. It is also essential to double up on all lines and use chafe protectors at any potential chafe points. Cover all lines at rough points to prevent chafing.

• Install fenders to protect the boat from rubbing against the pier, pilings, and other boats.

• Assess the attachment of primary cleats, winches, and chocks. These should have substantial backing plates and adequate stainless steel bolt sizes.

• Batteries should be fully charged and checked to ensure their capability to run automatic bilge pumps for the duration of the storm. Consider backup batteries. Cut off all devices consuming electricity except bilge pumps.

Find boating safety information on the U.S. Coast Guard’s site — www.uscgboating.org.

Source: Lee County Emergency Management